SeaWorld Orlando is having a complicated year.
The Central Florida theme park has faced growing competition, renewed legal scrutiny, and shifting visitor habits across the region. Yet even as attendance softens and lawsuits mount, the resort continues investing in updates designed to keep the experience competitive with neighboring parks.
SeaWorld’s parent company, United Parks & Resorts, recently confirmed that attendance across its properties dipped in 2025. The company reported 21.2 million visitors for the year — a roughly 1.8% decline compared with the previous year.
Financial results painted an even starker picture. Revenue fell 3.6% to $1.7 billion, while net income dropped 26% to $168.4 million — a steep decline executives acknowledged fell short of expectations.
Central Florida’s theme park landscape is also shifting rapidly. Major investments from The Walt Disney Company and the debut of Universal Epic Universe have intensified competition, pulling some visitors toward new attractions and experiences elsewhere in Orlando.
SeaWorld has also been dealing with a growing list of legal challenges.
The U.S. Department of Justice recently filed a lawsuit against the company over a policy banning certain wheeled walkers with seats. Federal officials argue the rule violates the Americans with Disabilities Act, adding further pressure on the operator.
Another legal dispute involves longtime partner Sesame Workshop. The nonprofit behind Sesame Street filed a lawsuit accusing SeaWorld of withholding royalties and mishandling the brand — potentially threatening a partnership that has been central to the park’s family-friendly offerings for decades.
Meanwhile, reputational challenges tied to the company’s animal programs have never fully faded.
The 2013 documentary Blackfish reignited international criticism of marine mammal captivity and triggered years of scrutiny toward SeaWorld’s business model. Even as the company has shifted its messaging and attraction strategy, the debate continues to shape public perception.
Despite those pressures, SeaWorld Orlando is still investing in its future.
The park recently announced unexpected updates to Expedition Odyssey within its first year of operation. The revised concept introduces a new fire-and-ice storyline, including volcanic environments, new animals, and an original musical score.
Those changes signal an effort to refresh the park’s attractions. Now, another upgrade appears to be happening at the very front of the guest experience.
SeaWorld Tests New Entry Technology
According to recent visitors, SeaWorld Orlando has begun testing a new high-tech bag scanning system at its security checkpoint.
One guest who noticed the equipment shared their reaction online.
SeaWorld is currently testing a new high tech bag scanner at their security checkpoint! I like this and its basically the same system that Universal uses. This is a much needed addition and im glad the equipment is being updated!
(Didn’t take a photo since its security releated)
SeaWorld is currently testing a new high tech bag scanner at their security checkpoint! I like this and its basically the same system that Universal uses. This is a much needed addition and im glad the equipment is being updated!
(Didn't take a photo since its security releated)
— Ethan Hershaft (@EthanHershaft) April 10, 2026
The new technology appears similar to the advanced scanning systems already used at Universal Orlando Resort. Instead of removing items from bags, guests can walk through a checkpoint while the system scans belongings automatically.
For visitors, the change could significantly speed up entry.
Traditional bag checks often slow the process, especially during peak morning hours when thousands of guests arrive at the gates. Automated scanners allow security teams to maintain safety standards without forcing every visitor to stop and unpack their bags.
Fans who spotted the test equipment say the upgrade has been a long time coming.
SeaWorld’s existing security checkpoints have remained largely unchanged for years, particularly compared with nearby competitors that have already modernized their entry systems.
Disney and Universal Already Made the Shift
Across town, Walt Disney World Resort implemented similar technology several years ago.
Disney parks now rely on Evolv-style scanners that allow guests to walk directly through security checkpoints. The system dramatically reduced wait times at major parks such as Magic Kingdom and EPCOT.
Meanwhile, security checkpoints for Universal CityWalk Orlando and the resort’s theme parks now use advanced scanners designed to process large crowds quickly while maintaining strict safety protocols.
The result has been smoother entry experiences during busy periods, particularly at rope drop when crowds surge toward the parks.
SeaWorld’s testing suggests the company is trying to catch up.
Even during a difficult period for the business, improving the arrival process could be one of the simplest ways to enhance the guest experience — especially as competition across Orlando’s theme parks continues to intensify.
Have you visited SeaWorld Orlando lately?
